These Sesame Ginger Chicken Wings are one of those air fryer recipes that’ll have everyone licking their fingers and asking for seconds. Crispy, sticky, and packed with bold Asian-inspired flavor — they’re everything you want in a wing and then some.
The first time I tested these wings in the air fryer, I wasn’t sure if they’d crisp up enough. But WOW — the air fryer nails it! Perfectly golden, crunchy wings tossed in a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sesame ginger sauce. I couldn’t stop sneaking bites right off the tray.
The flavor is incredible — garlicky, gingery, with a touch of sweetness balanced by salty soy and toasted sesame. The texture? Crispy wings that stay juicy inside, even under that glossy glaze.
You’ll only need about 10 minutes of prep, and they cook in under 25 minutes. Whether it’s game day, dinner, or just because you’re craving wings, these will hit the spot. Let’s make some magic in the air fryer!
🥕 Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you’ll need for these irresistible wings:
- Chicken wings – Flats and drumettes, patted dry for maximum crispiness.
- Soy sauce – The base of that salty umami glaze. Use low-sodium if preferred.
- Honey – Adds sweetness and helps the glaze get sticky.
- Fresh ginger & garlic – Bright and pungent. Grate or mince finely.
- Rice vinegar – A little tang to balance the sweetness.
- Sesame oil – Nutty, toasty flavor that takes it over the top.
- Cornstarch – Light coating for extra crunch.
- Sesame seeds & green onions – For garnish and added texture.
Pro Tip: Want gluten-free? Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
For a lighter version, you can skip the cornstarch coating — though they won’t be quite as crispy.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the wings.
Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. Toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer.
Set it to 380°F (193°C) and let it heat for about 3–5 minutes.
3. Air fry the wings.
Arrange wings in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook at 380°F for 24–26 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket — air circulation makes them crispy!
4. Make the sauce.
While the wings cook, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Toss & garnish.
When wings are done, toss them in the warm sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the wings dry — moisture prevents crisping.
- Overcrowding — makes them steam instead of crisp.
- Overcooking the glaze — it can burn quickly if left unattended.
- Forgetting to flip — helps even browning on both sides.
🎨 Variations & Add-Ons
Here are some delicious ways to switch it up:
- Spicy Sesame Ginger Wings
Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat. - Sticky Sweet
Double the honey in the sauce and reduce soy for an extra-glossy, sweeter glaze. - Keto-Friendly
Use a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit syrup instead of honey and skip the cornstarch. - Kid-Friendly
Reduce or skip the ginger for a milder flavor and make the sauce a little sweeter. - Garlic Lover’s
Add an extra clove of garlic to the sauce and sprinkle with crispy fried garlic.
📦 Make Ahead & Storage
You can prep the wings ahead:
- Raw wings can be coated and refrigerated up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Cooked wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to crisp them back up.
The sauce can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge — just reheat before tossing.
🥗 Nutrition Highlights
High protein, moderate fat, and easily adjustable to fit low-carb or gluten-free needs.
Sesame Ginger Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat wings dry and toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Air fry wings for 24–26 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Meanwhile, whisk sauce ingredients in a saucepan and simmer.
- Toss cooked wings in warm sauce, garnish, and serve.
Notes
- Use tamari for gluten-free.
- Add sriracha for spicy.
- Reheat in air fryer for 5 minutes.
If you try these Sesame Ginger Chicken Wings, let me know how they turn out! They’ve become one of my go-to party snacks and weeknight dinner treats. Don’t be afraid to play with the spice level or swap in your favorite garnishes. Snap a pic and tag me — I love seeing your air fryer creations. And if you’re looking for another wing idea, check out my Air Fryer Buffalo Wings — classic, tangy, and just as easy!
